Article by: Vicky Alercia-Casella LPC
April 2026
“Create Your Own Adventure in the Joys of Daily Life”
A few years ago, I bought a book called “The Adventure Challenge”. I don’t remember how I initially came upon it but this year, I intentionally decided to start it. It consists of a fun concept where it provides a table of contents and hints of what a “challenge” might be but you don’t actually know what it is until you scratch it. All of the challenges are hidden until you choose to reveal it. There are 50 total in the book. I have completed 4 so far; designing my own shirt, recreating a photo from my childhood, building the 7 wonders of the world out of Legos, and choosing a random country to learn about their culture. Some, I have done solo and some I have invited family or friends to join me. What I love most about it, is the opportunity to use your imagination. Recently, I came across an affirmation, “Worrying is a waste of your Imagination.” That stuck with me as I do tend to worry and overthink at times. Honestly, how can we not worry, considering what is in the news and happening in our world.
I am not one who enjoys being on electronics, which probably sounds odd, considering that technology is everywhere in society. We tend to believe that if we aren’t on our phone or laptop, we are missing something “important”, or so we think. When I do intentionally choose to be on electronics, I am usually watching or reading something that has a message to embrace and can impact my life in a healthy way. Two movies come to mind, and they are both made for kids, Pixar movies, “Up” and “Soul”. Up reminds us that adventure is out there, and Soul reminds us that the joy in life can be found in simple things like a slice of pizza, a cool breeze, or the laughter of a friend. Sometimes it is the small things in life that give meaning, not just the big achievements. So here is the gentle encouragement in this month’s column, to find small ways to shift your mind from worry to imagination. Maybe you will even surprise yourself with what you create. Or maybe intentionally slow down and notice the small moments of joy in your everyday life. “Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness. It’s the spark that lights a fire of joy in your soul.”- Amy Collette
My new website for 2026- www.heartsofhopehealing.com
Sending you Light and Love,
Victoria “Hope” Alercia-Casella
Licensed Professional Counselor
Student at Oasis Ministries for Spiritual Direction
Vicky Alercia-Casella has built a remarkable career dedicated to the mental health and well-being of her clients. Her passion for helping others is evident in her diverse range of therapeutic services, which have continually evolved to meet the needs of her community. To learn more about Vicky Alercia-Casella and her counseling services visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/
